36301, Dothan, Alabama Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 36301, Dothan, Alabama is 77 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 86.56 percent of the residents in 36301 has some form of health insurance. 42.97 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 56.55 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 36301 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 8,997 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 1 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 36301. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 6,471 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 2,443 health care providers accessible to residents in 36301, Dothan, Alabama.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Dothan, Alabama (ZIP Code 36301)

This analysis assesses the quality of asthma care and primary care accessibility within Dothan, Alabama, specifically focusing on the 36301 ZIP code. The evaluation considers factors crucial to asthma management, including physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and the presence of mental health resources. This holistic approach aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the healthcare landscape for individuals managing asthma in this area.

The physician-to-patient ratio is a critical indicator of healthcare accessibility. In Dothan, and particularly within the 36301 ZIP code, the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) and specialists, such as pulmonologists and allergists, directly impacts the ability of asthma patients to receive timely diagnoses, treatment, and ongoing management. Data from the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners and local hospital networks provides insights into the number of practicing physicians within the area. However, simply counting physicians is insufficient. The distribution of these physicians across different specialties, their patient load, and their acceptance of new patients are also important factors. A higher ratio of patients per physician can lead to longer wait times for appointments and potentially hinder the ability to effectively manage asthma symptoms and prevent exacerbations.

Several primary care practices in Dothan stand out for their commitment to asthma care. While specific practice names are omitted to maintain a neutral analysis, certain clinics are known for their comprehensive asthma management programs. These programs typically include patient education on asthma triggers, proper inhaler technique, and the development of personalized asthma action plans. These plans are crucial for empowering patients to take control of their condition and recognize early signs of worsening symptoms. Furthermore, practices that integrate electronic health records (EHRs) and offer patient portals facilitate communication, medication refills, and appointment scheduling, enhancing patient convenience and adherence to treatment plans.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to significantly improve asthma care accessibility, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. Telemedicine allows for remote consultations, medication management, and monitoring of asthma symptoms. Practices that offer telemedicine services, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication adjustments, can improve patient outcomes by providing more frequent and convenient access to healthcare professionals. The availability of virtual asthma education sessions and support groups through telemedicine further enhances patient self-management skills and promotes a sense of community. The adoption rate of telemedicine in the 36301 ZIP code is an important factor to assess the overall asthma score.

Mental health resources are frequently overlooked in the context of asthma management, but they are crucial. Asthma, a chronic condition, can contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The presence of mental health professionals, such as psychologists, therapists, and counselors, within primary care practices or readily accessible through referrals is essential. Integrated behavioral health services can help patients cope with the emotional burden of asthma, manage stress, and improve their overall quality of life. Coordination between primary care physicians, pulmonologists, and mental health providers ensures a holistic approach to patient care. The availability of these resources directly impacts the asthma score.

The overall asthma score for the 36301 ZIP code is determined by a combination of these factors. A high score indicates a healthcare environment that supports effective asthma management through adequate physician availability, comprehensive practice characteristics, telemedicine integration, and accessible mental health resources. Conversely, a low score suggests potential challenges in accessing quality asthma care, highlighting the need for improvements in these areas. Regular assessment of the asthma score, coupled with community initiatives, can help improve the quality of life for asthma patients in Dothan.

The accessibility of primary care in Dothan is a key element of this assessment. The number of PCPs, their acceptance of new patients, and their integration of asthma management protocols are all critical. The location of primary care clinics within the 36301 ZIP code and their proximity to public transportation or accessible parking are also important considerations, especially for patients with mobility issues or limited access to transportation. Practices that prioritize patient education and offer extended hours or weekend appointments further enhance primary care accessibility.

The availability of specialists, specifically pulmonologists and allergists, is crucial for asthma management. The number of specialists, their wait times for appointments, and their acceptance of referrals from primary care physicians are all important factors. Practices that collaborate effectively with specialists ensure seamless care coordination and optimal patient outcomes. A strong network of specialists within the Dothan healthcare system contributes to a higher asthma score.

The presence of asthma education programs and support groups within the community is another important factor. These programs provide patients with valuable information on asthma triggers, medication management, and self-care strategies. Support groups offer a platform for patients to connect with others who share similar experiences, reducing feelings of isolation and promoting emotional well-being. The availability of these resources, whether offered by healthcare providers or community organizations, significantly impacts the overall asthma score.

In conclusion, the asthma score for the 36301 ZIP code in Dothan reflects the complex interplay of physician availability, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and mental health resources. Continuous evaluation and improvement in these areas are essential to ensure that asthma patients receive the highest quality of care and can effectively manage their condition.

For a visual representation of physician locations, practice characteristics, and other relevant data points in the Dothan area, explore the interactive maps available on CartoChrome.